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Mountaineering

    Mountaineering Editor's Picks

    • How Bungee Jumping Works

      A bungee jump requires an elastic cord that even when fully stretched does not allow the weight at its end to touch the ground. With this in mind, the bungee jumper measures the height of the object to which he will attach the cord, factors in his own weight and the velocity he is likely to build up when hurtling toward the ground... more »

    • How to Choose an Ice Axe

      A proper ice axe is an essential part of ice climbing and hiking in cold areas. Hiking or ice climbing without an ice axe can be very dangerous, and selecting the proper ice axe is vital to safety while climbing. There are a wide variety of axes to choose from, so carrying the proper tool takes a bit of research and time. more »

    • The History of the Ice Axe

      Ice axes are a multipurpose tool used in mountaineering and climbing. This is perhaps one of the oldest tools used in mountaineering and a representative symbol of mountain climbing throughout history. Ice ax design has changed dramatically over the decades, becoming a lighter and more efficient tool. Ice axes were and are still used... more »

    • Types of Climbing Rope

      Climbing rope is one of the most essential pieces of gear when climbing. Ropes are designed and tailored to fit specific types of climbs and are tested to guarantee their safety under those conditions. There is a rope for every sort of climb, so it's important to consult an expert or mountain guide to determine which is best for your... more »

    • About Snowshoes

      Snowshoes, sometimes referred to as webs, are special footwear for walking in snow. By distributing the weight of a person over a larger area, they help to prevent sinking completely. In the past they were used by fur traders and trappers. Today snowshoes are generally used for recreation, however they serve as necessary equipment for... more »

    Mountaineering Quick Guides

    • Ice Climbing

      Ice Climbing combines the physical test of mountain climbing with the added challenge of...

    Mountaineering Articles

    • What Is Mountaineering?

      Mountaineering is a combination of activities that results in a person attempting to get as far up a mountain as he can. It can include hiking,... more »

    • How to Train for Mountaineering

      Mountaineering is not hiking, climbing or camping. It's all three of those things, usually combined with inclement weather and in a high altitude... more »

    • How to Buy a Mountaineering Snowshoe

      Be sure to consider what types of activities and terrain you will be traversing when you go to buy a mountaineering snowshoe. These snowshoes are... more »

    • How to Buy Mountaineering Boots

      Mountaineering boots are a highly specialized piece of hiking equipment. There are so many on the market and each has a different feature to... more »

    • Basic Mountaineering Gear

      Mountaineering is a unique combination of hiking, backpacking, mountain climbing, and camping. This type of activity is perfect for adventure... more »

    Wikipedia

    Mountaineering

    Mountaineering is the sport, hobby or profession of walking, hiking, backpacking and climbing mountains. In Europe it is also referred to as alpinism, while in the Americas the term refers to a particular style of mountain climbing, that involves a mixture of ice climbing, rock climbing, mixed climbing, and where the climbers carry all their loads with them at all times. In the Himalayan regions the style of mountaineering is Expedition. While mountaineering began as attempts to reach the highest point of unclimbed mountains, it has branched into specializations that address different aspects of the mountain and consists of three areas : rock-craft, snow-craft and skiing, depending on whether the route chosen is over rock, snow or ice. All require experience, athletic ability, and technical knowledge to maintain safety."freedom">
    The UIAA or Union Internationale des Associations dAlpinisme is the world governing body in mountaineering and climbing, addressing issues like - Access, Medical, Mountain Protection, , Youth and Ice Climbing.

    Technique

    Snow
    Compacted snow conditions allow mountaineers to progress on foot. Frequently crampons are required to travel efficiently over snow and ice. Crampons have 8-14 spikes and are attached to a mountaineers boots. They are used on hard snow (neve) and ice to provide additional traction and allow very steep ascents and descents. Varieties range from lightweight aluminum models intended for walking on snow covered glaciers, to aggressive steel models intended for vertical and overhanging ice and rock. Snowshoes can be used to walk through deep snow. Skis can be used everywhere snowshoes can and also in steeper, more alpine landscapes, although it takes considerable practice to develop strong skills for difficult terrain. Combining the techniques of alpine skiing and mountaineering to ascend and descend a mountain is a form of the sport by itself, called Ski Mountaineering. Ascending and descending a snow read more at » http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountaineering

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